The ritual that marks the end of
Shabbat. It is held on
Saturday night, as soon as three
stars are visible in the
sky (or if
overcast, about 50 minutes after the time candles were lit to begin Shabbat). The ritual has three components, the twisted havdalah candle, the
spices, and the
wine, in addition the saying of
prayers. The
candle symbolizes the
light that
God created on the first day of
creation, and reminds us of the new
week that is beginning. The spice is used to symbollically
revive us from the loss of our departing extra
soul. When Shabbat comes, we gain an
extra soul because of the day's extra
holiness, and it leaves when it is over. The wine symbolizes the
sweetness of the
Sabbath and God's work, and is always used when
sanctifying something.
Havadalah marks a turning point, making the distinction between the end of Shabbat and the beginning of the new week. Havadalah is performed in the dark, with the light of the candle as the sole illumination for the room. People usually sing songs and express their hopes for the coming week. In general, it is a very wonderful experience that brings together families and friends, and the songs are very beautiful.